Arrow Construction System Having Tip Canister Electronics

ABSTRACT

An arrow construction system comprising a tip canister configured to receive an arrow tip and to attach to an arrow shaft. The tip canister contains a power source and sensitive electronics. The power circuit may be a battery, a primary storage capacitor, a coil and a rectifier, and/or a solar cell. The tip canister may be electrically connected to the nock via the shaft electrical conduction system. The electrical conductors may be integrated into the shaft. The wires may form a cable with standard connectors. The nock may contain a light. Alternatively, the fletching may comprise light emitting film or fibers. The circuits may include a flash circuit, an audio circuit, a radio beacon, a wireless transmitter, environmental sensors, a camera, a switch, and/or a GPS device. The switch may be activated by a current detected in a coil or by an accelerometer.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to arrow construction, in particular theinvention related to improved system for arrow construction having a tipcanister and other electronic circuitry.

Description of Prior Art

When firing arrows, whether at an archery range or hunting, it is oftendifficult to track the movement or ultimate destination of an arrow.This often leads to the loss of arrows that otherwise would have beenrecovered. There have been many attempts to find ways to enable thearcher to find his shot arrows, including adding lights to the tail endof the arrow. However, these lights are simple in design and must bemanually switched on and off. This causes the battery to be continuouslydrained, shortening the lifespan of the light. Also, the battery isrelatively heavy and located in the tail of the arrow, which affects theflight of the arrow. Further, on impact the battery or its connectionsoften break.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, it is an objective of this invention to provide an arrowconstruction system comprising a tip canister configured to receive anarrow tip and to attach to an arrow shaft. The tip canister contains apower source and sensitive electronics. The tip canister moves theweight associated with the power circuit and the electronics to thefront of the arrow improving both arrow flight and reliability. Thepower circuit may be a battery, a storage capacitor, a coil and arectifier, and/or a solar cell. The tip canister may be electricallyconnected to the nock via the shaft. The electrical connections or wiresmay pass through the hollow shaft or may be integrated into the shaftitself for more reliability, ease of assembly, and lower cost. The wiresmay form a cable with standard connectors. The nock may contain a light,such as an LED. Alternatively, the fletching may comprise light emittingfilm or fibers. Further, fletching may comprise solar electric film. Thecircuits may include a flash circuit, an audio circuit, a radio beacon,a wireless transmitter, a wind tracking apparatus, other sensors, aswitch and/or a GPS device. The switch may be activated by a currentdetected in a coil or by an accelerometer. Current may be generated in acoil by passing the arrow through a magnetic field.

Another purpose is to allow archers to find their arrows using aflashing light source from the nock of the arrow.

OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES

Accordingly, beside the objects and advantages described above, someadditional objects and advantages of the present invention are:

-   -   1. To provide an arrow construction system comprising a tip        canister.    -   2. To provide an arrow tip canister configured to receive an        arrow tip.    -   3. To provide an arrow tip canister configured to attach to an        arrow shaft.    -   4. To provide an arrow tip canister comprising a power circuit.    -   5. To provide an arrow tip canister comprising a battery.    -   6. To provide an improved method of carrying a battery in an        arrow system.    -   7. To provide an arrow tip canister comprising a storage        capacitor.    -   8. To provide an arrow tip canister comprising a rectifier.    -   9. To provide an arrow tip canister comprising an accelerometer.    -   10. To provide an arrow construction system comprising a        wireless transmitter.    -   11. To provide an arrow construction system comprising a wind        tracking apparatus.    -   12. To provide an arrow construction system comprising a solar        cell.    -   13. To provide an arrow construction system comprising a shaft        with integrated wires.    -   14. To provide an arrow construction system comprising a shaft        with an integrated coil.    -   15. To move weight to the front of an arrow to improve arrow        flight.    -   16. To move sensitive circuitry to the front of an arrow to        improve reliability.    -   17. To provide an arrow construction system comprising a shaft        with electrical wires connecting the tip canister to the nock.    -   18. To provide an arrow construction system comprising a tip        canister and a nock each having a socket to receive a wire cable        having a standard connector on both ends to improve reliability,        ease of assembly, and cost.    -   19. To provide a light source from an arrow that flashes and is        energy efficient.    -   20. To provide an improved nock with integrated LED circuit and        conductors.    -   21. To provide fletching which emit light.    -   22. To provide fletching which generate solar power.    -   23. To provide light emitting fletching having light emitting        film.    -   24. To provide light emitting fletching having light emitting        fibers.    -   25. To provide various arrow tracker embodiments to charge the        light source.    -   26. To provide a bow mounted magnet able to switch on the light.    -   27. To provide a bow mounted magnet able to charge the power        circuit.    -   28. To enable archers to easily track and find shot arrows.    -   29. To enable means and methods of tracking arrows with minimal        cost and waste.    -   30. To provide a simple way to manufacture arrows with affixed        circuits and lights.    -   31. To provide means and methods to allow hunters to track        animals they have shot.    -   32. To provide an ideal tracking solution for users such as        hunters, who need a simple method of tracking arrows.    -   33. To provide a simple, no hassle means of lighting an arrow.    -   34. To provide a method to visualize the trajectory path of an        arrow.    -   35. To empower a less skilled archer to track and monitor        arrows.    -   36. To provide a means and method of tracking arrows that are        reusable.    -   37. To provide an arrow tracker that requires very little        maintenance.    -   38. To provide means and methods to track arrows that is        portable.    -   39. To provide an inexpensive means of tracking arrows.    -   40. To provide an arrow tracker that uses simple electronics        that are inexpensive and widely available.    -   41. To provide a more efficient way to track arrows.    -   42. To provide a wireless means of tracking arrows.    -   43. To provide a wireless means of switching on LED and/or        audio.    -   44. To provide a portable means of tracking arrows.    -   45. To provide an arrow tracker that requires no setup.    -   46. To provide a more effective way of finding game.    -   47. To provide a method to track arrows in low visibility        conditions.    -   48. To provide an easy to store arrow tracker.    -   49. To provide a lightweight arrow tracker.

DRAWING FIGURES

In the drawings, closely related figures have the same number butdifferent alphabetic suffixes.

FIG. 1A illustrates examples arrows being lost while firing at a target.

FIG. 1B illustrates an example of how a live target can be hidden evenafter being hit by an arrow.

FIG. 2A illustrates an embodiment of an arrow constructed with a tip, athreaded tip canister with positive and negative contacts, a hollowshaft having electrical wires, fletching, and a light emitting nock onthe tail.

FIG. 2B illustrates an embodiment of an arrow constructed with a tip, atip canister with positive and negative contacts, a hollow shaft havingintegrated wires with positive inside and negative outside, fletching,and a light emitting nock on the tail.

FIG. 2C illustrates LED circuitry integrated into a translucent nock.

FIG. 2D illustrates an embodiment of arrow construction systemcomprising a tip canister and an illuminated nock having standardconnector sockets for receiving, for example a standard telephone cable.

FIG. 3A illustrates an arrow shaft with integrated wires.

FIG. 3B illustrates an arrow shaft with integrated internal wires.

FIG. 3C illustrates an arrow shaft with an inner positive conductor andan outer negative conductor with corresponding tip canister andilluminated knock.

FIG. 3D illustrates a cross section of the tip canister and illustratesa more detailed view of the positive and negative contacts.

FIG. 3E illustrates a cross section of a shaft with integrated wires onthe outside and inside.

FIG. 3F illustrates a cross section of the nock.

FIG. 3G illustrates an arrow shaft and nock with fletching that has LEDlights and optional solar electric film.

FIG. 4A illustrates an arrow shaft with an inserted coil.

FIG. 4B illustrates an arrow shaft with an external coil.

FIG. 4C illustrates a shaft electrical conduction subsystem comprising acable with a coil, positive and negative wires, and connectors on eachend.

FIG. 5A illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit, comprising acoil, a rectifier, and a power source; and a LED circuit.

FIG. 5B illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit, a flashcircuit, and LED circuit to result in a flashing LED.

FIG. 5C illustrates a flash circuit and its components, comprising atransistor and a capacitor.

FIG. 5D illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit, flash circuitand audio circuit to provide a flashing or beeping noise.

FIG. 5E illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit, flash circuit,and LED circuit, and audio circuit in a flashing light combined withaudio.

FIG. 5F illustrates a configuration wherein a power circuit, comprisinga solar cell, capacitor, and resistor, is connected to an LED circuit.

FIG. 5G illustrates a configuration wherein a power circuit, comprisinga solar cell, battery, and resistor, is connected to an LED circuit.

FIG. 6A illustrates a circuit having a coil activating a switch to a LEDcircuit.

FIG. 6B illustrates a circuit having an accelerometer activating aswitch to a flash circuit and LED.

FIG. 6C illustrates a circuit comprising a switch, a battery, a flashcircuit and an audio circuit.

FIG. 6D illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit, a switch, aflash circuit, and an audio circuit and LED circuit in parallel.

FIG. 6E illustrates a power circuit connected to a radio beacon.

FIG. 6F illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit, a switch, aradio transceiver and one or more sensors.

FIG. 6G illustrates an embodiment of arrow construction systemcomprising a wind tracking apparatus containing elements for calculatingwind speed and direction, and transmitting the data wirelessly.

FIG. 6H illustrates an arrow with solar cells integrated with the shaft.

FIG. 6I illustrates solar cells on the fletching of an arrow.

FIG. 7A illustrates a side view of an arrow passing through a magnetmounted on a bow.

FIG. 7B illustrates a front view of an arrow passing through a magnetmounted on a bow.

FIG. 7C illustrates a front view of an arrow passing through a pluralityof magnets mounted on a bow.

FIG. 8A portrays the benefits of the invention on the arrow allowingotherwise lost arrows to be easily found.

FIG. 8B illustrates how otherwise hidden prey can be found using theinvention.

REFERENCE NUMERALS IN DRAWINGS

-   -   100 archer    -   110 target    -   120 hay bale    -   130 bushes    -   140 a-f arrow    -   142 a-d lost arrow    -   150 bow    -   160 deer    -   200 shaft    -   210 arrow tip    -   220 tip canister    -   230 tip receptacle    -   240 fletching    -   242 light emitting fletching    -   250 nock    -   260 positive contact    -   262 nock positive contact    -   270 negative contact    -   272 nock negative contact    -   280 a-b thread receptor    -   282 connector    -   284 socket    -   286 wire    -   310 integrated positive wire    -   320 integrated negative wire    -   400 inserted coil    -   401 integrated coil    -   410 positive wire    -   420 negative wire    -   500 power circuit    -   502 coil    -   504 rectifier    -   506 power source    -   508 resistor    -   510 LED circuit    -   512 LED    -   520 flash circuit    -   530 audio circuit    -   540 transistor    -   550 capacitor    -   610 battery    -   620 switch    -   630 switch circuit    -   640 solar cell    -   642 fiber optic    -   650 wireless transmitter    -   660 wireless transceiver    -   670 sensors    -   680 wind tracking apparatus    -   690 accelerometer    -   700 magnet    -   710 string    -   720 limb    -   730 handle    -   750 north magnet    -   760 south magnet    -   770 fall away arrow rest

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an arrow construction system comprising atip canister 220 configured to receive an arrow tip 210 and to attach toan arrow shaft 200 with other components described below. The tipcanister 220 may contain a power source 506 and sensitive electronics.The tip canister 220 moves the weight associated with components of apower circuit 500 and other electronics to the front of the arrow 140improve both arrow flight and reliability. The power circuit 500 maycomprise a battery 610, a storage capacitor 550, a coil 502 and arectifier 504, and/or a solar cell 640. The tip canister 220 may beelectrically connected to a nock 250 via the shaft. The electricalconnections or wires 286 may pass through a hollow arrow shaft 200 ormay be integrated into the shaft 200 for more reliability, ease ofassembly, and lower cost. The wires 286 may form a cable with standardconnectors 282, such as RJ11 telephone connectors. The cable may furthercomprise a coil 502. The nock 250 may contain a light, such as an LED(light emitting diode) 512. Alternatively, the fletching 240 maycomprise light emitting film or fibers. Further fletching 240 maycomprise a solar cell 640 (or photovoltaic cell), for example, in theform of a solar electric film. The electronics may include variouscircuits, such as a flash circuit 520, an audio circuit 530, a wirelesstransmitter 650 (such radio beacon), a wireless transceiver 660, sensors670 (such as a wind tracking apparatus 680), a switch 620 and/or a GPSdevice. The switch 620 may be activated by a current detected in a coil502 or by an accelerometer 690. Current may be generated in a coil 502by passing the arrow 140 through a magnetic field.

The Problem of Lost Arrows FIG. 1A

FIG. 1A shows examples of places that arrows can be lost while firing ata target. When an archer 100 shoots arrows 140 a-b with a bow 150 theycan become lost arrows 142. Lost arrow 142 a is shown lost under thetarget 110 and its supporting hay bale 120. Lost arrow 142 b is shownhidden in the bushes 130. Lost arrow 142 c is shown having passedcompletely through the target 110 and deep inside the hay bale 120. Itis common for arrows 140 to become lost. When this happens in an archeryrange, not only does it take time away from shooting by the archer, but,when other archers are also shooting, they must wait while the searchcontinues for lost arrows. The present invention provides improved meansand methods for constructing arrows so that they can be found morerapidly at the archery range.

FIG. 1B

FIG. 1B shows an example of how a live target can be hidden even afterbeing hit by an arrow. When hunting a live target, such as a deer 160,the live target may be hit and then move to cover making it difficult tofind. FIG. 1B shows a deer 160 obscured by the bushes 130 even thoughthe lost arrow 142 d hit the deer 160. The present invention providesimproved means and methods for constructing arrows so that they can befound more rapidly when in the wild and, in particular, can help findgame that has been shot.

Arrow Construction Systems Having Tip Canisters FIG. 2A

FIG. 2A illustrates an embodiment of an arrow 140 constructed with anarrow tip 210, a tip canister 220, a shaft 200 having a electricalconduction subsystem, fletching 240, and a light emitting nock 250 onthe tail.

In this embodiment, the arrow tip 210 is configured to attach to thearrow shaft 200 using a standard threaded tip receptacle 230. The noveltip canister 220 is configured with a thread receptor 280 a so that itcan receive the arrow tip 210. In this embodiment the tip canister 220is configured with threads to attach to the arrow shaft 200 using thestandard threaded tip receptacle 230 in place of the arrow tip 210 atthread receptor 280 b. The arrow shaft 200 is shown as a hollow shaftmade, for example, of fiberglass, carbon fiber, or composite fiberglassand metal. The tip canister 220 also comprises a positive contact 260and a negative contact 270. The tip canister 220 may also contain one ormore of a power circuit 500, a flash circuit 520, an audio circuit 530,a battery 610, a switch 620, a switch circuit 630, a solar cell 640, awireless transmitter 650, a wireless transceiver 660 and/or sensors 670,such as a wind tracking apparatus 680 or an accelerometer 690. Fletching240 is attached to the back (or tail end) of the arrow shaft 200 towardsthe tail of the arrow 140. The nock 250 attaches to the tail end of thearrow shaft 200 behind fletching 240. In this embodiment, the nock 250is an illuminated nock 250 (for example, see FIG. 2C) with a nockpositive contact 262 and a nock negative contact 272. The electricalconduction subsystem connects the tip canister positive contact 260 tothe nock positive contact 262 and connects the tip canister negativecontact 270 to the nock negative contact 272 via the shaft 200. Forexamples of shaft electrical conduction subsystems see FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C,and 3E.

FIG. 2B

FIG. 2B illustrates an embodiment of an arrow 140 constructed with anarrow tip 210, a tip canister 220, a shaft 200 having a electricalconduction subsystem comprising integrated wires with positive insideand negative outside, fletching 240, and a light emitting nock 250 onthe tail end.

In this embodiment, the arrow tip 210 is configured to attach to thenovel tip canister 220 with a thread receptor 280 a. In this embodiment,the tip canister 220 is configured to attach to the hollow arrow shaft200 with an insertion cylinder with an outer diameter that matches theinner diameter of the arrow shaft 200. For example, see the embodimentin FIG. 3D. The insertion cylinder forms a positive contact 260. The tipcanister 220 also comprises a sleeve that fits over the arrow shaft 200.The sleeve comprises a negative contact 270. The arrow shaft 200 isshown as a hollow shaft. In this embodiment, the electrical conductionsubsystem comprises a negative conductor on the outside of the arrowshaft 200 and a positive conductor on the inside of the arrow shaft 200.For example, see the shaft electrical conduction subsystem of FIGS. 3Cand 3E. The tip canister 220 may also contain one or more of a powercircuit 500, a flash circuit 520, an audio circuit 530, a battery 610, aswitch 620, a switch circuit 630, a solar cell 640, a wirelesstransmitter 650, a wireless transceiver 660 and/or sensors 670, such asa wind tracking apparatus 680 or an accelerometer 690. Fletching 240 isattached to the back of the arrow shaft 200 towards the tail of thearrow 140. The nock 250 attaches to the tail end of the arrow shaft 200behind fletching 240. In this embodiment, the nock 250 is an illuminatednock with a nock positive contact 262 and a nock negative contact 272.The electrical conduction subsystem connects the tip canister positivecontact 260 to the nock positive contact 262 and connects the tipcanister negative contact 270 to the nock negative contact 272 via theshaft 200.

In another embodiment (not shown), the tip canister 220 could containlights facing forward or sideways.

FIG. 2C

FIG. 2C illustrates LED circuitry 510 integrated into a translucent nock250.

FIG. 2C shows an embodiment of a novel nock with LED circuitry 510embedded within the translucent material of the nock 250. The nock 250comprises an LED 512 and a resistor 508 in series. In this embodiment,the nock positive contact 262 is connected to the LED 512 and the nocknegative contact 270 is connected to the resistor 508. The nock 250 ispreferably formed of molded plastic with the LED circuitry beingembedded in the plastic while the plastic is liquid. This results in adurable component of an arrow construction system that can withstandsignificant shock, acceleration forces, and deceleration forces, and inlow cost of production. The nock positive contact 262 and the nocknegative contact 270 may be positioned to match the shaft electricalconduction subsystem, for example as shown is FIG. 2A, 2B, 2D or 3F.

FIG. 2D

FIG. 2D illustrates an embodiment of an arrow construction systemcomprising a tip canister 220 and an illuminate nock 250 having standardconnector sockets 284 a and 284 b (respectively) for receiving, forexample a standard telephone cable.

In this embodiment, the shaft electrical conduction subsystem comprisesa small cable that is configured to pass through a hollow shaft 200 (notshown). In this example, the cable comprises two connectors 282 andwires 286.

In one embodiment, the cable is a standard telephone cable using RJ11,4P4C, or 4P2C connectors and sockets. A first connector 282 a attachesto a socket 284 a on tip canister 220. The wire 286 has connector 282 aon one end and connector 282 b on the other. The connector 282 bconnects to socket 284 b on the nock 250.

This embodiment has the advantage of using standard cables that are inready, low cost supply and can be easily replaced in the field. Thelocking connectors 282 and sockets 284 improve the reliability andmaintainability of the arrow construction system in the field.

Further, custom length RJ11 or 4P4C cables can be made using low costreadily available materials and tools so that custom arrow makers canmake custom length arrow shafts using these novel tip canisters 220 andnocks 250 having sockets.

In yet another embodiment, the cable could be a coaxial cable, forexample like a cable TV cable with BNC connectors. In a BNC embodiment,the tip canister 220 would have a corresponding BNC socket 284.

Arrow Construction Systems Having Shaft Electrical Conduction SubsystemsFIG. 3A

FIG. 3A illustrates a shaft electrical conduction subsystem comprisingan arrow shaft 200 with integrated wires (310 and 320), one external andone internal, respectively.

In this embodiment, a hollow arrow shaft 200 contains internal positivewire 310 and external negative wire 320. Preferably the positive wire310 and negative wire 320 are formed of a conductive trace formed on theinternal and external surfaces, respectively, of the shaft 200. Forexample, the shaft 200 could be formed of insulating fiberglass with ametal or carbon filament conductor adhered along the shaft 200.

This embodiment has the advantage of ease of manufacture and highreliability.

Alternatively, in another embodiment, the positive wire 310 and negativewire 320 may be formed of standard wires, which are readily available,but which may make assembly more difficult.

The exemplary placement of the wires shown in FIG. 3A correspond to theplacement of the tip canister positive contact 260, the nock positivecontact 262 the tip canister negative contact 270 and the nock negativecontact 272 as shown in FIG. 2A.

While FIG. 3A shows a hollow shaft 200, alternatively, the arrow shaft200 could be solid with a plurality of external wires, including thepositive wire 310 and negative wire 320 could be formed on the externalsurface of the shaft 200.

FIG. 3B

FIG. 3B illustrates a shaft electrical conduction subsystem comprisingan arrow shaft 200 with integrated internal wires (310 and 320).

In this embodiment, a hollow arrow shaft 200 contains an internalpositive wire 310 and internal negative wire 320 (as shown in thecutaway section of the figure). Preferably the positive wire 310 andnegative wire 320 are formed of a conductive trace formed on theinternal surfaces of the shaft 200. For example, the shaft 200 could beformed of insulating fiberglass with a metal or carbon filamentconductor adhered along the shaft 200.

This embodiment has the advantage of ease of manufacture and highreliability.

Having both wires (310 and 320) internal improve the reliability overthe embodiment of FIG. 3A.

Alternatively, in another embodiment, the positive wire 310 and negativewire 320 may be formed of standard wires, which are readily available,but which may make assembly more difficult.

The exemplary placement of the wires shown in FIG. 3B correspond to theplacement of the tip canister positive contact 260, the nock positivecontact 262 the tip canister negative contact 270 and the nock negativecontact 272 as shown in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3C Through FIG. 3F

FIG. 3C illustrates an embodiment of an arrow construction systemcomprising a novel tip canister 220, a novel shaft electrical conductionsubsystem, and an illuminate nock 250.

FIG. 3C illustrates a shaft electrical conduction subsystem comprisingan arrow shaft 200 with integrated conduction layers (310 and 320), oneexternal and one internal, respectively. FIG. 3E shows a cross sectionof the shaft 200 shown in FIG. 3C.

In this embodiment, a hollow arrow shaft 200 contains internal positivewire 310 and external negative wire 320. Preferably the positive wire310 and negative wire 320 are formed of a conductive trace formed on thesubstantially the entire internal and external surfaces, respectively,of the shaft 200. For example, the shaft 200 could be formed ofinsulating fiberglass with a metal or carbon filament conductor formedas a layer along the external and internal surfaces, respectively, ofthe shaft 200.

This embodiment has the advantage of ease of manufacture and highreliability.

Further, custom length shafts 200 can be made using these novel shaft200 so that custom arrow makers can make custom length arrow shafts 200using this novel shaft electrical conduction subsystem with integratedinternal and external conduction layers (310 and 320).

FIG. 3C also shows a novel tip canister 220 configured to attach to thehollow arrow shaft 200 with an insertion cylinder with an outer diameterthat matches the inner diameter of the hollow arrow shaft 200. Theinsertion cylinder forms a positive contact 260. The tip canister 220also comprises a sleeve that fits over the arrow shaft 200. The sleevecomprises a negative contact 270. FIG. 3D shows a cross section of thetip canister 220 shown in FIG. 3C.

An arrow tip 210 may be connected to the tip canister 220 with a threadreceptor 280 (as shown in FIG. 2B) or another means such as an insertioncylinder.

FIG. 3C further shows a novel illuminated nock 250 configured to attachto the hollow arrow shaft 200 with an insertion cylinder with an outerdiameter that matches the inner diameter of the hollow arrow shaft 200.The insertion cylinder forms a nock positive contact 262. The nock 250also comprises a sleeve that fits over the arrow shaft 200. The sleevecomprises a nock negative contact 272. FIG. 3F shows a cross section ofthe nock 250 shown in FIG. 3C.

FIG. 3F shows details of the novel nock 250. The nock 250 comprises anLED 512 and a resistor 508 in series. In this embodiment, the nockpositive contact 262 is connected to the LED 512 and the nock negativecontact 270 is connected to the resistor 508. The nock 250 is preferablyformed of molded plastic with the LED circuitry being embedded in theplastic while the plastic is liquid. This results in a durable componentof an arrow construction system that can withstand significant shock,acceleration forces, and deceleration forces, and in low cost ofproduction.

The internal and external placement of the electrical conductors shownin FIG. 3C correspond to the internal placement of the tip canisterpositive contact 260 and the nock positive contact 262 (see FIGS. 3D and3F for more detail) and the external placement of the tip canisternegative contact 270 and the nock negative contact 272 (see FIGS. 3D and3F for more detail). This embodiment provides improved ease of assemblyand reliability over the shaft electrical conduction subsystemembodiment shown is FIG. 3A, because the contacts (260, 262, 270, and272) do not need to be lined up with the wires (310 and 320).

Further, the arrow construction system shown in FIG. 3C allows customarrow makers can make custom length arrow shafts 200 with integratedconductors which can easily be assembled with novel tip canisters 220and novel nocks 250 making reliable electrical connections.

Novel Light Emitting and Solar Cell Fletching FIG. 3G

FIG. 3G illustrates various embodiments an arrow shaft 200 and nock 250with light emitting fletching 242 and optional solar cell 640 film.

In one embodiment, as shown, each vane of the light emitting fletching242 comprises fiber optics 642 that carry the light emitted from theilluminated nock 250 to individual fibers in the vane.

In another embodiment, each vane of the light emitting fletching 242comprises film that contains LEDs (light emitting diodes). In thisembodiment, the nock 250 need not be illuminated.

In yet another embodiment, each vane of the fletching 240 comprises filmthat contains solar cells 640 (see FIG. 6I). Preferably the vanes aremade of a solar cell 640 film. The electrical connections for the solarcell 640 may travel along the shaft 200 via the shaft electricalconduction subsystem to a means for storing the power. Alternatively,the solar cell 640 can have a direct connection to the illuminated nock250 and provide continuous illumination while the sun or a light ischarging the solar cell 640.

In yet another embodiment, the solar cell 640 may comprise film adheredto the external surface of the arrow shaft 200.

Coils Configured Along a Shaft

Novel arrow construction systems may also comprise various coils 502 forcharging a power source 506 (e.g. FIG. 5A) or for electricallytriggering a switch 620 (e.g. FIG. 6A). FIGS. 4A through 4C showsdifferent coil (400, 401) configurations. FIGS. 7A through 7C showembodiments of magnets (700, 750, 760) mounted on a bow, so that thearrow shaft 200 coils 502 are passed through a magnetic field when thearrow 140 is shot.

FIG. 4A

FIG. 4A illustrates a hollow arrow shaft 200 with an inserted coil 400.

FIG. 4B

FIG. 4B illustrates an arrow shaft 200 with an external integrated coil401. In this embodiment, the coil wire is coiled around the arrow shaft200. Preferably the wire is coiled tightly or covered with a filler,such as paint or resin, or a film so the arrow shaft 200 has a smoothaerodynamic surface.

FIG. 4C

FIG. 4C illustrates a shaft electrical conduction subsystem comprising acable with an integrated coil 401, a positive wire 410, a negative wire420, and connectors 282 on each end. Wires 286 comprises a positive wire410 and a negative wire 420, both surrounded by integrated coil 401 andconnected to connectors 282 a-b are on either end. The coil 401 is onlyconnected to one connector 282 a. The connectors 282 a-b are preferablystandard connectors such as telephone connectors. This embodiment iscompatible with the arrow construction system shown for example in FIG.2D. When combined, the integrated coil 401 would be connected to thecircuitry inside the tip canister 220.

In another embodiment, the integrated coil 401 could be connected to asingle connector 282 a without the positive wire 410 or the negativewire 420.

In yet another embodiment, the cable is a coaxial cable, for example, acable TV cable with BNC connectors. In a BNC embodiment, the tipcanister 220 would have a corresponding BNC socket 284.

Arrow Construction System Circuits

Various electronic circuits may be used in various combinations in arrowconstruction systems. All or part of the circuit may be contained in tipcanister 220. In most embodiments, some portion of the circuit will belocated in the tip canister 220 and other portions will be attached tothe tail end of the arrow such as light emitting fletching 242, solarcell 640, or illuminated nock 250. In distributed circuits, anembodiment of a shaft electrical conduction subsystem is used to connectthe tip canister 220 portion to the tail portion (e.g. nock 250 or tailcanister).

FIG. 5A

FIG. 5A illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit 500 comprisinga coil 502, a rectifier 504, and a power source 506, and a LED circuit510.

In this embodiment, the power circuit 500 comprises the rectifier 504,which converts the AC current of the coil 502 into DC current, which isstored in the power source 506. The power is released through theresistor 508 a to the LED circuit. The LED circuit 510 comprises an LED512 and resistor 508 b in series.

When the coil 502 (e.g. in an arrow 140 either as an inserted coil 400or an integrated coil 401) passes through a magnetic field (see FIGS. 7Athrough 7C) when the arrow 140 is shot, the current generated in thecoil 502 is rectified and stored in the power source 506. The powersource 506 could be a primary storage capacitor 550 (similar to FIG. 5F)or a battery 610 (similar to FIG. 5G). The power source 506 would becharged when the arrow is shot and would illuminate the LED 512 (e.g. inan illuminated nock 250) until the power is drained from the powersource 506.

This embodiment has the advantage of not requiring a mechanical switch,which will improve reliability and simplify operation by the archer. Thecircuit is automatically activated whenever the arrow 140 is shot.

An embodiment with a primary storage capacitor 550 has advantages overembodiments with batteries 610: first, the weight of the battery isremoved; and second, if the arrow 140 is lost, the heavy metals of thebattery 610 would not be left in the wilderness to harm the environment.

FIG. 5B

FIG. 5B illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit 500, a flashcircuit 520, and LED circuit 510 to result in a circuit with a flashingLED 512.

In one embodiment, a flash circuit 520 is inserted between the automaticpower circuit 500 and LED circuit 510 as shown in FIG. 5A. In otherembodiments, the power circuit is not automatic and is permanentlypowered when the battery 610 is inserted, when the capacitor 550 ischarged from an external source, or when the power is switched on.

FIG. 5C

FIG. 5C illustrates a simple embodiment of a flash circuit 520,comprising a transistor 540 and a capacitor 550 wired as shown. Theflash rate and duration are determined by the values of the transistor540 and the capacitor 550. For example, when 12V power is suppliedthrough a 1K resistor (not shown), a common NPN 2N2222 transistor 540and a 330 uF capacitor 550 will produce a suitable flash rate. Otherflash circuits are known in the art but require more components, andtheir associated weight and increased unreliability.

FIG. 5D

FIG. 5D illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit 500, a flashcircuit 520 and an audio circuit 530 to provide a flashing or beepingnoise. The circuit of FIG. 5D is similar to the circuit of FIG. 5Bexcept instead of powering an LED, it powers an audible noise.

In one embodiment, a flash circuit 520 is connected to an automaticpower circuit 500 as shown in FIG. 5A. In other embodiments, the powercircuit is not automatic and is permanently powered when the battery 610is inserted, when the capacitor 550 is charged from an external source,or when the power is switched on.

FIG. 5E

FIG. 5E illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit 500, a flashcircuit 520, and LED circuit 510, and audio circuit 530, resulting in aflashing light combined with audio.

FIG. 5E illustrates an optional configuration combining FIGS. 5B and 5Dresulting in a flashing light with audio.

FIG. 5F

FIG. 5F illustrates a circuit where a power circuit 500 comprises asolar cell 640, a storage capacitor 550, and a resistor 508. The powercircuit 500 is shown connected to a LED circuit 510, but could also beconnected to a flash circuit 520 and/or an audio circuit 530. Thisembodiment is similar to FIG. 5A but the power comes from a solar cellrather than coil 502, which has the advantage of working for anextending period of time. For example, if a arrow 140 with a solarpowered circuit was lost on one day, the search could continue onanother day, several days or even weeks later.

An embodiment with a storage capacitor 550 (e.g. FIG. 5F) has advantagesover embodiments with batteries 610 (e.g. FIG. 5G): first, the weight ofthe battery is removed; and second, if the arrow 140 is lost, the heavymetals of the battery 610 would not be left in the wilderness to harmthe environment. In this case, the storage capacitor 550 is the primarypower source (i.e. it is distinct from capacitors that server otherpurposes in the circuit such as to smooth the voltage, or creating aflash circuit, such as in FIG. 5C).

FIG. 5G

FIG. 5G illustrates a circuit where a power circuit 500 comprises asolar cell 640, a rechargeable battery 610, and a resistor 508. Thepower circuit 500 is shown connected to a LED circuit 510, but couldalso be connected to a flash circuit 520 and/or an audio circuit 530.

This embodiment is similar to FIG. 5A but the power comes from a solarcell rather than coil 502, which has the advantage of working for anextending period of time. For example, if a arrow 140 with a solarpowered circuit was lost on one day, the search could continue onanother day, several days or even weeks later.

Automatic Circuit Switch Activation

Various attempts have been made to preserve battery life by manually orautomatically switching on power to an illuminated nock. Manualswitching requires the archer to turn on the switch, typically at acritical time when the archer is focused on other things such asshooting technique or hunting. Automatic switching attempts have beenplagued with unreliability because the switches fail to function some ofthe time or because the forces placed upon the arrow 140 damage thefragile switches.

FIG. 6A

FIG. 6A illustrates a circuit having a coil 502 activating a switch 620which activates a power circuit 500 and an LED circuit 510. The coil 502and the switch 620 form a switch circuit 630.

When the coil 502 (e.g. in an arrow 140 either as an inserted coil 400or an integrated coil 401) passes through a magnetic field (see FIGS. 7Athrough 7C) as the arrow 140 is shot, the current generated in the coil502 is detected electronically by the switch 620.

This embodiment has the advantage of not requiring a mechanical switch,which will improve reliability and simplify operation by the archer. Thecircuit is automatically activated whenever the arrow 140 is shot.

The embodiment of FIG. 6A powers a LED circuit 510, but could also powerother circuits with the elements shown for example in FIG. 5B, 5D, 5E,6C, 6D, 6E or 6F.

FIG. 6B

FIG. 6B illustrates a circuit having an accelerometer 690 activating aswitch 620 which activates a power circuit 500 and flash circuit 520which in turn powers an LED circuit 510. The accelerometer 690 and theswitch 620 form a switch circuit 630.

The accelerometer 690 (e.g. mounted in a tip canister 220)electronically detects first, an acceleration when the arrow 140 isshot, and second, a deceleration when the arrow 140 hits something. Theaccelerometer 690 can be configured to automatically switch on the LEDcircuit 510 (or optionally an audio circuit 530) at either event.

In a preferred embodiment (not shown), the accelerometer 690 turns on aflashing LED circuit 510 upon acceleration and turns on an audio circuit530 upon deceleration. When hunting, the LED 512 allows the archer tosee the path of the arrow 140 upon release and during flight, and theaudio will not start until after the arrow 140 hits.

The embodiment of FIG. 6B powers a LED circuit 510, but could also powerother circuits with the elements shown for example in FIG. 5B, 5D, 5E,6C, 6D, 6E or 6F.

FIG. 6C

FIG. 6C illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit 500, shown as abattery 610, a switch circuit 630, a flash circuit 520 and an audiocircuit 530. This embodiment would result in a flashing noise or beepingwhen the switch is turned on. The switch circuit 630 could be anautomatic switch (e.g. FIG. 6A or FIG. 6B) or a manual switch.

FIG. 6D

FIG. 6D illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit 500, a switchcircuit 630, a flash circuit 520, and an LED circuit 510 and an audiocircuit 530 in parallel. This embodiment would result in a flashinglight and noise or beeping when the switch is turned on. The switchcircuit 630 could be an automatic switch (e.g. FIG. 6A or FIG. 6B) or amanual switch.

FIG. 6E

FIG. 6E illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit 500 and awireless transmitter 650, show as a radio beacon. The wirelesstransmitter 650, for example, could be a non-directional beacon (NDB)that could be homed in on using an automatic direction finder (ADF)receiver. The wireless transmitter 650 could transmit a continuoussignal, or, to save power, could transmit a pulse signal at regularintervals.

FIG. 6F

FIG. 6F illustrates a circuit comprising a power circuit 500, a switch630, one or more sensors 670, and a wireless transceiver 660, show as aradio transceiver. The wireless transceiver 660 receives and sendswireless communications. The wireless transceiver 660 could transmit acontinuous signal, or, to save power, could transmit a pulse signal atregular intervals. The wireless transceiver 660 could transmit responsesbase on queries it receives.

The sensors 670 could be on one or more of a GPS, a digital videocamera, a thermometer, a barometer, a moisture sensor, a humiditysensor, a wind direction sensor, and a wind speed sensor. For example,FIG. 6G shows an embodiment with wind tracking apparatus 680.

In one embodiment, the sensor 670 comprises a GPS sensor and transmits aGPS coordinate in response to a location request.

In another GPS embodiment, the path of the arrow 140, and any movementof the target is transmitted, so that archer can find the arrow and lostprey by following the same path, for example in dense brush or roughterrain.

In yet another GPS embodiment, the GPS location, wind and otheratmospheric information is transmitted at regular intervals.

In yet another embodiment, the LED or audio circuits remain dormantuntil the wireless transceiver 660 receives a command to switch them on.Upon wireless receipt of the command, the LED and/or audio circuits areactivated. Wirelessly activated circuits have the advantage of savingenergy until location assistance is needed. On the archery range, thiswould have the advantage of not turning on the flash or beeps until allthe arrows have been shot and the range is clear for the archers toretrieve their arrows. The beeping and flashing would otherwise be adistraction for those archers who are still shooting.

FIG. 6G

FIG. 6G illustrates an embodiment of arrow construction systemcomprising sensors 670, shown as a wind tracking apparatus 680containing elements for calculating wind speed and direction; and awireless transmitter 650.

In this embodiment, the wind tracking apparatus 680 is mechanical: winddirection is determined by a vane, and wind speed is determined by awheel. In other embodiments, the wind tracking apparatus 680 could beopto-mechanical, for example having a optical fiber and an opticalsensor; or non-mechanical, such as an ultrasonic anemometer. In the caseof the ultrasonic anemometer, it could be comprised of three sensorsmounted at the tail end of the fletching vanes.

FIG. 6H

FIG. 6H illustrates solar cells 640 a integrated with an arrow shaft200. In this embodiment, the solar cells 640 a are shown as part of atail canister between the arrow shaft 200 and the nock 250.Alternatively, the solar cells 640 could be solar film on the surface ofthe arrow shaft 200.

FIG. 6I

FIG. 6I illustrates solar cells 640 on fletching 240 of an arrow shaft200.

Each vane of the fletching 240 comprises film that contains solar cells640 b-c. Preferably the vanes are made of a solar cell 640 film. Theelectrical connections for the solar cell 640 may travel along the shaft200 to a means for storing the power. Alternatively, the solar cells 640could be directly connected to an illuminated nock 250.

Various Circuit Combinations

The various circuit combinations shown and/or discussed above inreference to FIGS. 5A through 6I are exemplary to illustrate specificcircuits that can be implemented as part of the arrow constructionsystem. Further, the various circuit combinations illustrate that othercircuits can be implemented in different combinations and not departfrom the spirit and scope of the invention.

Automatically Passing a Coil Through a Magnetic Field when an Arrow isShot

FIGS. 7A through 7C show embodiments of magnets (700, 750, 760) mountedon a bow, so that the arrow shaft 200 coils 502 are passed through amagnetic field when the arrow 140 is shot. The coil 502 (e.g. FIG. 5A orFIG. 6A) is situated along the arrow shaft 200, either as an insertedcoil 400 (e.g. FIG. 4A) or an integrated coil 401 (e.g. FIGS. 4B and4C). When the coil 502 moves through the magnetic field, a current isgenerated in the coil 502. With a circuit as in FIG. 5A, the archer cancharge the power source 506 by moving the arrow 140 through the magneticfield. This happens automatically when the arrow 140 is placed in on thebow 150, when the bow string 710 is pulled back, and when the bow string710 is released. The archer could store an additional charge by movingthe arrow 140 forward and back through any magnetic field, for example,the field associated with the magnets (700, 750, 760) mounted on the bow150.

FIG. 7A

FIG. 7A illustrates a side view of an arrow 140 passing through a magnet700 mounted on a bow 150. The bow 150 comprises a bow string 710, limbs720, and a handle 730.

When the arrow 140 is placed through the magnet 700 a small current isgenerated. When the string 710 is pulled back, and released, it allowsthe arrow 140 to move through the magnet 700 while resting on handle730. The magnet 700 is shown as a ring but could be a plurality ofmagnets as shown in FIG. 7C or another shape such as a horseshoe, whichwould allow the arrow 140 to drop through the magnet(s).

FIG. 7B

FIG. 7B illustrates a partial front view of the embodiment shown in FIG.7A.

Arrow 140 rests on the top of handle 730, and passes through the ringmagnet 700. The handle 730 is attached to the limbs 720 of the bow 150.

FIG. 7C

FIG. 7C illustrates a partial front view of another embodiment where themagnetic field is generated by a plurality of magnets, shown as northmagnet 750 and south magnet 760.

Arrow 140 rests on two fall away arrow rests 770, on the handle 730connected to limbs 720.

FIG. 8A

FIG. 8A portrays the benefits of the invention on the arrow 140 allowingotherwise lost arrows to be easily found.

When archer 100 shoots arrows 140 a-e from his bow 150 at the target110, sometimes his arrows aren't always in a visible spot like arrows140 b, which ended up in target 110. With LED 512 lights (or otherembodiments), even otherwise lost arrows 140 c-e obscured by bushes 130and hay bale 120 will be able to be found.

FIG. 8B

FIG. 8B illustrates how previously hidden prey can be found using theinvention.

Exemplary deer 160 is obscured by the bushes 130, but due to the LED 512on arrow 140 f, the prey will still be able to be found.

ADVANTAGES Reliability

The tip canister, shaft electrical conduction subsystems, and integratednock allow construction of arrows with electronics that are morereliable and durable than current electronics. Further, the automaticswitching and charging features of various embodiments also improve thereliability and durability of the arrows systems.

Easy to Track

Because of the light (or audio or GPS) affixed to the arrow, whenhunting or shooting at a range the present invention makes the arrowmuch easier to find. In hunting, when the archer has hit a target, thearcher is able to follow the wounded prey.

Easy to Use

The arrow construction system is easy to use. Arrow manufactures, customarrow markers, and archers can easily use the various components tomake, or modify, arrows having superior features. In some embodiments,the arrow will light up or start broadcasting its location when it isfired.

In the coil charged or solar charged embodiments, batteries do not needto be replaced on a frequent basis.

Easy to Store

Because of its simple design, the components can be stored separatelywith minimal space used, or kept on the arrow or bow.

Better Battery Life

The present invention currently uses less power due to flashing circuitsor interval transmissions. This allows for the arrow electronics to beused significantly longer. In the coil charged or solar chargedembodiments, batteries can be eliminated.

Portable

The arrow components are lightweight and durable allowing for increasedportability. Most embodiments do not require any extra equipment inorder to be used.

Inexpensive

The components used in the circuitry are simple and cheap tomanufacture; this makes both buying and replacing componentscost-effective. Some circuits use less parts or eliminate batterieswhich reduce the electronics cost.

Lightweight

The design and nature of the components means the systems are extremelyportable and lightweight.

Energy Efficient

The flashing nature of the LED, audio, or other circuits, as well as thefact that they are not triggered until fired means that the circuits runextremely efficiently and with minimal electrical use. Some embodimentsare charged by solar cells and/or eliminate batteries keeping theenvironmental impact of the arrows very small and allowing for lesscircuitry and greater performance.

Easily Reused

The components can be reused over and over again without heavydeterioration or loss of function.

Little Maintenance

The circuitry has few parts and the system is efficient and longlasting. Little is required for the user in terms of effort put in toupkeep and replacement.

Empowering

To one without experience, it is often difficult to predict the movementof the arrows in flight. Tracking arrows becomes still more difficultwhen hunting in foggy, low-light or other visibility conditions. Theflashing tracking system empowers archers of all skill levels to moreeasily observe arrow flight and to find arrows in various conditions.

More Efficient

The flashing light or audio is more easily visible or noticeable thanconventional methods. The user will waste less time looking for arrowsor wounded prey.

CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATION, AND SCOPE

Accordingly, the arrow construction system allows for arrows to be madeor modified having superior features, reliability, and ease of use.

While the above descriptions contain several specifics these should notbe construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather asexamples of some of the preferred embodiments thereof. Many othervariations are possible. For example, the arrow construction systemcould be used to make spears or javelin that are thrown instead of shotfrom a bow. The various circuits could be implemented with variouscomponents while providing the same substantial functions. Thevariations could be used without departing from the scope and spirit ofthe novel features of the present invention.

Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined not by theillustrated embodiments, but by the appended claims and their legalequivalents.

1. An arrow construction system for assembling an arrow, the arrowcomprising an arrow tip and an arrow shaft having a tip end and a tailend, the arrow construction system comprising: a shaft electricalconduction subsystem configured along the arrow shaft, wherein the shaftelectrical conduction subsystem comprises at least two separateconductors.
 2. The arrow construction system of claim 1, furthercomprising a tip canister configured to connect to the tip end of thearrow shaft, the tip canister having tip canister contact, wherein thetip canister is configured to contain at least a portion of anelectronic circuit.
 3. The arrow construction system of claim 2, furthercomprising a nock, wherein the nock is configured to contain a secondportion of the electronic circuit, having nock contacts, and wherein theshaft electrical conduction subsystem connects a plurality of conductorsfrom the tip canister contacts to the nock contacts.
 4. The arrowconstruction system of claim 2, wherein the arrow shaft is hollow, andwherein the tip canister comprises an insertion cylinder wherein the tipcanister insertion cylinder is configured to make an attachment with thehollow arrow shaft.
 5. The arrow construction system of claim 4, whereinthe insertion cylinder comprises at least one of the tip canistercontacts and positions the at least one of the tip canister contacts tomake contact with at least one of the separate conductors of the shaftelectrical conduction subsystem.
 6. The arrow construction system ofclaim 3, wherein the nock is formed of translucent plastic, and whereinthe second portion of the electronic circuit comprises a light emittingdiode embedded in the translucent plastic of the nock.
 7. The arrowconstruction system of claim 1, further comprising a light emittingfletching.
 8. The arrow construction system of claim 1, wherein theelectronic circuit comprises power circuit, and wherein the powercircuit comprises a solar cell, whereby the electronic circuit ischarged when light hits the solar cell.
 9. The arrow construction systemof claim 1, wherein the electronic circuit comprises an audio circuit.10. The arrow construction system of claim 1, wherein the electroniccircuit comprises a wireless transmitter.
 11. The arrow constructionsystem of claim 1, wherein the electronic circuit comprises a wirelesstransceiver.
 12. The arrow construction system of claim 1, wherein theelectronic circuit comprises a GPS receiver.
 13. The arrow constructionsystem of claim 1, wherein the electronic circuit comprises a windsensor.
 14. The arrow construction system of claim 1, wherein theelectronic circuit comprises a thermometer.
 15. The arrow constructionsystem of claim 1, wherein the electronic circuit comprises a barometer.16. The arrow construction system of claim 1, wherein the electroniccircuit comprises a humidity sensor.
 17. The arrow construction systemof claim 1, wherein the electronic circuit comprises digital camera. 18.The arrow construction system of claim 1, wherein the shaft electricalconduction subsystem conductors are integrated as two separateconducting traces on the arrow shaft.
 19. The arrow construction systemof claim 18, further comprising a light emitting fletching, wherein thelight emitting fletching is formed of translucent material, wherein aportion of the electronic circuit comprises a light emitting diodeconfigured to illuminate the translucent material, and wherein the powerand ground for the light emitting diode is received via contact with thetwo separate conducting traces.
 20. The arrow construction system ofclaim 1, wherein the arrow shaft is hollow, and wherein the shaftelectrical conduction subsystem conductors are integrated as: a) aninterior conducting surface, and b) an exterior conducting surface.